City University International Guide www.bcu.ac.uk/international

MEET US ABROAD We have representatives in most countries; check out our website for more details: www.bcu.ac.uk/your-country

T: +44 (0) 121 331 5389 E: [email protected] International Guide www.bcu.ac.uk/international 2020/21 @MyBCU /birminghamcityuniversityinternational Birmingham City University International Guide www.bcu.ac.uk/international CONTENTS

4 Welcome to our University 38 Inspiring staff 8 Why study with us? 42 Our graduates 10 The heart of the UK 44 Snapped at BCU 12 The city is your campus 46 City life 14 Our campuses 50 Student stories 20 The facilities you need 52 Our courses 24 Our Research 70 Applying 26 A place to call home 74 Entry requirements 28 Your Students’ Union 76 Foundation programmes 30 Get into sport 78 Fees and living costs 32 First-class support 80 Financing your degree 34 Go abroad 82 Your arrival 36 On course to a career

2 3 Birmingham City University International Guide www.bcu.ac.uk/international

7TH IN THE UK FOR EMPLOYABILITY* *Destinations of Leavers from Higher Education (DLHE) survey 16/17. Multi-faculty universities (excluding specialist institutions with fewer than 1,000 students).

Located just over an hour from London, Our innovative teaching methods, a meet and greet service at Birmingham we offer our students a friendly study ground-breaking research and industry Airport and a friendly Student Services team environment in the UK’s second-largest city, collaborations are backed by around 50 whose priority is to help make your move as well as outstanding facilities to support professional accreditations, providing between countries as easy as possible. in their development and academic career. you with an education that not only works in the classroom, but in the This guide will give you a flavour of the We’ve built strong partnerships with both real world for when you graduate. exciting courses you can study at Birmingham students and industry professionals to offer City University. If you would like to know an inspirational learning environment. You’ll share your university with 24,500 more, please don’t hesitate to get in touch We’ve helped to enrich the lives of students from over 100 different countries, and we hope to see you in person soon. WELCOME leading architects, designers, lawyers, and we ensure that everyone feels right at engineers, healthcare professionals, home here in Birmingham with guaranteed BIRMINGHAM CITY UNIVERSITY IS SITUATED IN THE HEART OF BIRMINGHAM, musicians and many more. accommodation for international students, WHICH IN TURN IS LOCATED IN THE CENTRE OF THE UK. WE ARE IDEALLY PLACED TO EXPERIENCE THE EXCITING CULTURAL, SOCIAL, ECONOMIC AND PHYSICAL Please note that the information in this IMPORTANT LEGAL INFORMATION CHANGES THAT ARE TRANSFORMING OUR CITY FOR THE FUTURE. guide is aimed at applicants starting Birmingham City University’s Terms and Conditions are available on The their course at Birmingham City Student Contract web page www.bcu.ac.uk/student-info/student-contract. University in 2020/21 and should be The Terms and Conditions set out the basis of the legal contract between read in conjunction with the information you and the University in the event you accept an offer of a place to study available on the course web pages. with us. It is important that you read this document carefully.

4 5 Birmingham City University International Guide INNA-MARIE www.bcu.ac.uk/international MA Design Management BA (Hons) Product Design JAKE - Finland - BA (Hons) Marketing “I have had so many opportunities at BCU SUNAN YANLING - UK - PhD Construction MA Visual Communication that in turn have allowed me to help and - Pakistan - - China - support other students, this is what I’m I AM BCU “After visiting BCU at an open day, most proud of about being a student here.” I knew this was the university “It amazes me just how diverse “Like a friend, if I am ever EVERYONE PICTURED BELOW IS A STUDENT OR RECENT for me. The staff, the course and and welcoming BCU is in regards in need of support or feel the facilities were all that I had to students from other countries worried, I will look to my BCU GRADUATE OF BIRMINGHAM CITY UNIVERSITY. IN THEIR imagined a university to be.” and communities. It’s fantastic community for help or advice.” OWN WORDS, THIS IS WHAT THEY LOVE ABOUT BCU. seeing how many opportunities there are here.”

ANH MA International Human ZANUB Resource Management LLB (Hons) Law - Vietnam - - UK -

“The study experience “Before coming to BCU, I at BCU is priceless to was shy and quite reserved. me. It isn’t just about I have become so much how amazing the course more confident and have is, it’s also about building gotten involved in so many friendships, enhancing opportunities; it’s been the your travel experience best decision I’ve made.” and transforming yourself.”

RENEE MA Arts and Project Management - Jamaica - YEE “What I have learned here MA Visual Communication goes beyond academic - Malaysia - knowledge. It’s more about joining a network of “Studying at BCU has led me creative and like-minded to achieve so much - meeting CHIOMA people. Hard working, real, illustrators, enhancing my HAAR MSc Management and purposeful energy that all research techniques, exploring MMus Music Technology International Business merges together; this is new topics; it’s because of - China - - Nigeria - what makes the BCU family.” BCU that I have been able to accomplish so many things.” “If I go back to China to work “Leaving my home country and live, I will tell the people and studying in was that are closest to me that an opportunity I have always I have a home in Birmingham, looked forward to and BCU and in BCU.” made the journey worth it.”

6 7 Birmingham City University International Guide www.bcu.ac.uk/international The Hive, City Centre Campus

WHY STUDY 1 2 3 4 WORK WITH INTERNATIONALLY A GLOBAL ENHANCING CAREER GLOBAL BRANDS ACCREDITED COURSES CITY PROSPECTS We have a large number of industry We have around 50 internationally Study with us and you will be located We offer career support and advice partners and work with big-name recognised accreditations for our at the heart of the UK’s second largest throughout your time with us and employers like the BBC, the NHS, Jaguar courses from such bodies as the city – with all its social and employment for up to three years after you Land Rover, Cisco, Microsoft and the Institution of Engineering and possibilities. In fact, Birmingham was graduate. Our Graduate+ scheme WITH US? Royal Shakespeare Company. All of Technology, Chartered Institute of recently declared the most rapidly embeds career-related skills into our courses incorporate work-related Management Accountants and Royal improving city in the country in which every one of our degree courses, HERE ARE OUR TOP 10 REASONS TO experience, with many giving the option Institute of British Architects. to live and work (Good Growth for Cities from becoming a course representative of a year-long placement. index 2017). to studying abroad. CHOOSE BIRMINGHAM CITY UNIVERSITY. See page 10. See page 36. 5 6 7 8 9 10 LEARN FROM PRACTICE-BASED £1.2 MILLION IN EARN WHILE INVESTING IN 97% EMPLOYED/ THE BEST RESEARCH SCHOLARSHIPS YOU LEARN YOUR FUTURE IN FURTHER STUDY Many of our teaching staff come from Almost 90% of our research was Every year we provide a number Our student employment agency, We are currently undertaking a £340 Our commitment to ensuring students and maintain links with industry. judged to have delivered ‘outstanding’ of scholarships recognising the OpportUNIty – Student Jobs on million investment programme in develop the skills and experience Ten are National Teaching Fellows or ‘very considerable’ external impact talents of our international students, Campus, allows you to apply for industry-standard, state-of-the-art employers need means that 97% of - awarded for excellence in university in the most recent review, the Research which are applied towards the cost paid roles at the University, gaining facilities to ensure you have the our undergraduates and 96% of our teaching and learning. We received Excellence Framework 2014. of tuition fees. experience in crucial aspects of job best possible environment for postgraduates are in employment or silver status for quality of teaching in See page 24. applications and valuable feedback practice-based learning. further study within six months of the Teaching Excellence Framework on your work. See page 20. graduation (Destinations of Leavers (TEF) 2017. from Higher Education survey 2016/17). See page 38.

8 9 Birmingham City University International Guide www.bcu.ac.uk/international

Aberdeen

Dundee

THE HEART Glasgow Edinburgh NOT ONLY IS BIRMINGHAM ONE OF THE UK’S MOST EXCITING

AND DIVERSE CITIES; IT IS ALSO ONE OF THE MOST ACCESSIBLE. Newcastle Belfast Durham We are at the centre of the UK’s road, Local transport is also excellent, rail and coach networks, so travelling with a network of trains, buses and further afield is no problem, while a recently-extended tram network commuting from the surrounding providing easy access to all University area to our centrally located sites. For more information on our Leeds York TRAINS: campuses is easy to do. campus locations within the city, see page 14. Manchester BIRMINGHAM – LONDON 1H 26M Liverpool Sheffield BIRMINGHAM – MANCHESTER 1H 30M www.bcu.ac.uk/maps BIRMINGHAM – EDINBURGH 4H 50M

Derby Nottingham All journey times and routes are approximate. Leicester

BIRMINGHAM FLIGHTS: Coventry BIRMINGHAM – AMSTERDAM 1H 15M Worcester Leamington Cambridge Gloucester Spa BIRMINGHAM – PARIS 1H 20M

Oxford BIRMINGHAM – DUBAI 7H 10M Cardiff Reading BIRMINGHAM – ISLAMABAD 7H 40M London Bristol BIRMINGHAM – NEW DELHI 8H 30M

All journey times are approximate and may involve transfers. Bullring Southampton Exeter Bournemouth

10 11 Birmingham City University International Guide www.bcu.ac.uk/international

JEWELLERY QUARTER RAILWAY STATION SCHOOL OF JEWELLERY St Paul’s THE CITY Square CITY CENTRE BIRMINGHAM SNOW HILL CAMPUS SCHOOL OF ART RAILWAY STATION Barclaycard Arena Great Western ICC & Arcade Symphony Birmingham IS YOUR Hall Museum & Art Gallery Corporation The Library of New Street Birmingham Street NEW STREET High RAILWAY STATION Street GRAND MOOR STREET CENTRAL John RAILWAY STATION CAMPUS Broad Street Bright Street BULLRING The Mailbox New JOIN US AT BIRMINGHAM CITY UNIVERSITY Alexandra Theatre AND YOU WILL BE RIGHT IN THE HEART OF The Cinema Cube Arcadian Birmingham A FORWARD-LOOKING AND VIBRANT CITY Coach Station

WITH PLENTY TO DO CLOSE AT HAND. Markets Birmingham Custard Hippodrome Factory FIVE WAYS The O2 RAILWAY STATION Academy GAY VILLAGE CITY SOUTH DIGBETH CAMPUS

15-MINUTE WALK FROM NEW STREET STATION TO CITY CENTRE CAMPUS BIRMINGHAM CITY UNIVERSITY CAMPUS ACCOMMODATION 10-MINUTE WALK FROM MOOR STREET STATION TO CITY CENTRE CAMPUS RAILWAY STATIONS CITY CENTRE AREAS OF INTEREST 20-MINUTE BUS JOURNEY FROM BULLRING TO CITY SOUTH CAMPUS

12 13 Birmingham City University International Guide WE ARE INVESTING £340 MILLION ACROSS OUR BUILDINGS AND FACILITIES TO GIVE YOU THE VERY BEST LEARNING ENVIRONMENT TO SHAPE YOUR EXPERIENCE.

This campus at the heart of Birmingham’s fast- developing Eastside district, and just a short walk from the city centre, is where most students on courses including Music, Design, Media, Acting, Engineering, Computing, Digital Technology, Built Environment, Law, Social Science, Business and English are based.

The campus also features library, IT and student support facilities, giving a modern, dynamic space for you to learn in with state-of-the-art resources. An extension to the campus opened in 2018, with more learning space, another IT suite and an innovative group-working lecture theatre. It also provides a base for our Students’ Union, incorporating the Grade II listed Eagle and Ball pub. CITY CENTRE Our facilities are located alongside Eastside City Park – the first new urban park in Birmingham for over 130 years, which provides a superb space for relaxing in CAMPUS summer as well as a venue for events and activities. ROYAL FACILITIES INCLUDE: BIRMINGHAM

• Cisco networking lab CONSERVATOIRE • Replica city trading room A new £57 million building • Curzon Print Centre at our City Centre Campus, • Dedicated IT and student opened in 2017, provides services support a conservatoire for the 21st • Four industry-standard TV studios Century. Our music students • Geotechnical soils lab benefit from a new concert • Green screen MILO studio hall, private rehearsal and • Hydraulics lab practice rooms, and teaching • Mock law courts spaces for musicians from • Library with access to printed a variety of disciplines. and online resources • Noise and vibration cells • Photography studios and darkrooms • Print, textiles, wood, ceramics and glass workshops • Radio studios and editing suites • Recording facilities and vintage mixing desk • Robotic laboratory • Specialist drama studios • Students’ Union.

14 15 Birmingham City University International Guide www.bcu.ac.uk/international

Social Kitchen City South Campus

STUDENTS ON HEALTH, CITY SOUTH SPORT AND LIFE SCIENCES, AND EDUCATION COURSES ARE BASED ON OUR STATE- OF-THE-ART CAMPUS IN THE LEAFY SUBURB OF CAMPUS EDGBASTON, WITHIN EASY REACH OF THE CITY CENTRE.

Our facilities replicate the real world of health, education, sport and life sciences, including an operating theatre, hospital wards and a fully equipped midwifery skills/birthing SPORT AND LIFE room, as well as sport and life sciences SCIENCES laboratories and replica classrooms for use by our teaching students. The creation of our new suite of FACILITIES INCLUDE: courses in Sport and Life Sciences • Mock hospital wards We have invested £41 million in is yet another exciting development and operating theatre new facilities on this site, including at Birmingham City University. • Virtual radiotherapy and specialist laboratories for a newly radiography imaging suites created School of Life Sciences, Not only have we invested in a new • Simulated home environment as well as a new home for the School building to house the laboratories • Replica school classrooms of Education, which opened in 2018. and teaching spaces needed, but • Physiology and biomedical we also plan to open up these science laboratories. facilities to benefit all students and the wider community.

All courses have been co-designed with employers and are endorsed or accredited by professional bodies where appropriate.

By expanding our provision to these areas, we will be helping to tackle some of the biggest challenges facing society today, such as obesity and unhealthy lifestyles, as well as supporting the UK’s ambitions for success at international sporting tournaments, including the in Birmingham!

16 17 Birmingham City University International Guide www.bcu.ac.uk/international

BIRMINGHAM SCHOOL OF SCHOOL JEWELLERY OF ART

IN ADDITION TO OUR TWO Our jewellery school stands in a modern THIS GRADE I LISTED and spacious building in Vittoria Street, right FACILITIES INCLUDE: MAIN CAMPUSES, OUR in the heart of Birmingham’s famous Jewellery VENETIAN GOTHIC BUILDING Quarter where much of the jewellery made • Specialist studio workshops ART AND JEWELLERY in Britain today is manufactured. Gemmology • Casting facility and IN MARGARET STREET HOUSES courses are based in a purpose-built area electroplating laboratory STUDENTS BENEFIT FROM within Birmingham’s new Assay Office. • Machine workshop including A WONDERFUL COMPLEX laser welders and laser cutters STUDYING AT SPECIALIST A new postgraduate facility in the Jewellery • Exhibition space and OF TRADITIONAL-STYLE Quarter’s St Paul’s Square offers an improved specialist library LOCATIONS IN THE CITY. specialist jewellery library, design studios • Stores for materials and tools. WORKSHOPS AND TEACHING and more. AND EXHIBITION SPACE.

FACILITIES INCLUDE: Floating mezzanine levels, glass lifts and • Light and airy studios cutting-edge workspaces sit comfortably beside • Gallery and installation space the original stained-glass windows and mosaic • Fine art library floors of this glorious purpose-built art school. • Woodwork, metal, plaster, fibreglass and ceramics workshops We’re right in the city centre, perfectly placed • Digital media, print and next to the city’s main museum and art gallery. photography workshops. There are purpose-built spaces throughout the building to present students’ work in a thriving, exhibition-orientated home.

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In addition to high-quality WHEN YOU CHOOSE TO STUDY AT facilities specific to your BIRMINGHAM CITY UNIVERSITY, YOU course, you will find a range of general learning TURN OVER. CAN BE CONFIDENT THAT YOUR LEARNING resources which provide you with all the help you THERE’S MORE THE NEEDS ARE OUR TOP PRIORITY. need to succeed. FACILITIES YOU NEED

TRADING TV STUDIOS ROOM

Our four industry- standard TV studios featuring the latest Sony equipment and a green screen MILO facility.

ENGINEERING WORKSHOPS

TEXTILE STUDIOS

2020 21 Birmingham City University International Guide www.bcu.ac.uk/international

PHOTOGRAPHY EASTSIDE STUDIOS JAZZ CLUB

LAW COURTS

PRINT BIOMECHANICS STUDIOS LABS

STUDY SPACE

LIBRARY AND LEARNING RESOURCES

You will have access to a wide range of online and IT RESOURCES many print resources with 24/7 support. These have been selected in partnership with your lecturers, You will have access to your own email so are quality assured and relevant to your course. account as soon as you accept an unconditional offer from us, free secure If you need help in person or online, our expert staff file storage and free University wi-fi, as and back-up services are there to help you get the well as the use of open-access computers best from the time you invest in developing your within every library and faculty. information-seeking skills.

Our IT Help Desk is on hand to resolve We have been accredited to the Customer Service any technical issues, while our Follow-Me CISCO Excellence standard; we focus on delivery, timeliness, printing system lets you print from any NETWORKING information, professionalism and staff attitude. We printer on campus (charges apply). value collaborative working, and include the student LAB voice alongside our expertise to improve your services. www.bcu.ac.uk/it www.bcu.ac.uk/library

22 23 Birmingham City University International Guide www.bcu.ac.uk/international

WE ARE COMMITTED TO DISCOVERING NEW KNOWLEDGE AND DELIVERING REAL BENEFIT TO CULTURE, INDUSTRY, SOCIETY OUR AND THE ENVIRONMENT.

Our researchers work across disciplines and with collaborators locally, nationally and internationally to produce research of high impact to society, the environment, culture and the economy. We have launched the UK’s first Centre for Brexit RESEARCH Studies, researching all aspects of the UK’s vote to leave the EU, including the impact RESEARCH AT BIRMINGHAM on the British and European economies. Our Research Excellence Framework CITY UNIVERSITY UNDERPINS (REF) 2014 results demonstrate the public benefit of our research to society and the OUR LEARNING AND economy, with 90% deemed to have either TEACHING, IS DEMAND ‘outstanding’ or ‘very considerable’ impact. LED AND INCREASINGLY INTERDISCIPLINARY.

CASE STUDY:

Birmingham City University has The developed technology could AREAS OF RESEARCH USING SMART TECHNOLOGY teamed up with Greek technology have a major impact on future firm Singular Logic to help solve policy by finding ways to improve • Architecture, Built Environment TO TACKLE GLOBAL major global issues such as the efficiency and performance and Planning water loss and water wastage. of water systems across the UK WATER ISSUES The four-year project, named and Europe. Three researchers • Art and Design Internet of Things Smart Water will be appointed to the scheme • Business and Management Innovative Networks (IoT4Win), and earn PhDs from Birmingham • Computing will see academics work City University as part of the • Education alongside industry partners in project to create a legacy of the UK, Romania, Greece and knowledge in the smart water • Engineering Spain to find ways to improve sector, which could transform the • English the efficiency of water systems. way water utility companies and • Health authorities operate in the future. • Law An array of smart technology sensors will be put to work to www.bcu.ac.uk/research- • Media and Cultural Studies monitor and provide real-time smart-tech-water • Music and Performance updates on the quality, quantity • Social Sciences and demand for water in urban areas and find new ways to provide accessible and affordable water. If you’d like to find out more, please visit www.bcu.ac.uk/research.

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WE OFFER ACCOMMODATION AT VARIOUS LOCATIONS AROUND THE CITY. OUR HALLS OF RESIDENCE ARE NEAR TO OUR CAMPUSES AND PUBLIC TRANSPORT, SO YOU’RE IDEALLY LOCATED FOR STUDYING AND SOCIALISING. Jennens Court social space

Leaving home for university is one of the biggest moves you will ever make. And with the excitement, freedom and independence of living in halls, it is the perfect way to meet new friends.

As an international student you are guaranteed Birmingham City University accommodation for the duration of your course if you apply by 31 August.

We encourage all new international A PLACE students go into University halls of residence because it gives you the En suite room at opportunity to meet other students and WANT TO get to know the local area. Staniforth House SEE MORE? If you decide that you want to stay in private accommodation we have our Visit bcu.ac.uk/ own letting agency - ‘Birmingham City Student Homes,’ which we recommend accommodation to find private housing. TO CALL to view our halls. www.bcu.ac.uk/accommodation

University HOME Locks flat

`

AT A Over 2,000 Easily accessible CCTV coverage Access to Shared kitchen, living GLANCE rooms available – close to public and security free wi-fi areas, laundry facilities and transport links staff at each site common rooms

26 27 Birmingham City University International Guide www.bcu.ac.uk/international

AS SOON AS YOU ENROL, YOU’LL BE ASKED TO JOIN THE STUDENTS’ UNION. MEMBERSHIP IS FREE, YOU WON’T HAVE ANY FORMS TO YOUR COMPLETE AND IT’S WELL WORTH BEING A MEMBER INTERESTED IN SOCIETIES? We sent our intrepid vlogger Joey AS WE’RE ALWAYS HERE to try out some of the societies at BCU. See how he gets on at TO HELP YOU THROUGHOUT www.bcu.ac.uk/societies STUDENTS’ YOUR STUDENT JOURNEY. We like to consider that you’re part of or international scale will enhance your our family and that you will be for the existing skills and help you to learn entire time you study here. Being a new ones. part of the BCUSU family means you have free access to all of our amazing Our very own letting agency to help services and facilities, including: you find your next student home without the hassle. Support and advice from our specially UNION trained advisers on a range of topics, Exciting entertainment to make your including money, health, academia social life as fun-filled as possible – WELCOME TO BCUSU - YOUR STUDENTS’ UNION! and housing. it’s not all academic, you know! A voice throughout your time here: A unique, Grade II listed venue at the we guarantee you will be listened City Centre Campus with special prices to and represented by us! We on all our food and drinks and a special campaign on your behalf to make your entertainment programme just for you. student experience even better. Shops on our campuses, offering all Over 200 student groups for you to get of those essential items you’ll need. involved in, including sports, activities, religion, special interest and subject We’re run by students for students and Support Help finding Volunteering projects Campus shops A voice Over 200 specific. As well as a great way to meet each year we ask all our students to and advice your student on a local, national or for all your daily throughout student groups new people, being a member or leading vote for who they want to lead BCUSU. home international scale student essentials your time here to get involved in a student group will look great on your CV! Volunteering projects on a local, national www.bcusu.com

28 29 Birmingham City University International Guide www.bcu.ac.uk/international GET INTO SPORT

WHATEVER COURSE YOU STUDY, YOU’LL BE ABLE TO ACCESS A RANGE OF SPORT AND PHYSICAL ACTIVITY OPPORTUNITIES HERE AT BIRMINGHAM CITY UNIVERSITY. WHETHER YOU WANT TO COMPETE AT A HIGH LEVEL OR JUST TRY SOMETHING NEW, WE HAVE AN ACTIVITY SUITABLE FOR YOU!

From rowing to rugby and table We also offer the chance to take part tennis to tennis, we have teams in courses to become a coach or in over 25 different sports, referee, allowing you to contribute [email protected] with 18 of those sports offering to the development of sport here OUR PARTNERS the chance to compete in the or in the wider community. @BCUSport inter-university BUCS (British We have developed partnerships with University and Colleges The placement opportunities that a range of sporting bodies to enhance the BCUSport Sports) league. arise from our contacts in the student experience through placement, sporting world benefit all students, coaching and volunteering opportunities. @BCUSport If competitive sport isn’t for you, not just those on sport-related many of our students take part courses – from working for Aston • Warwickshire County Cricket Club just for fun - enhancing their Villa as part of the matchday media health and fitness, making new team to developing the software for • Team Birmingham Basketball Club friends and providing an occasional an athlete monitoring app, there • Aston Villa FC break from their studies. are a wide range of opportunities. • City of Birmingham Swimming Club • Moseley Rugby Club • England Squash • The Rugby Football Union 25 • Birmingham City University Futsal Team Over 25 sports clubs Complete beginners Meet new people from Sports scholarships • Edgbaston Priory Club that you can join welcome different courses available

30 31 Birmingham City University International Guide www.bcu.ac.uk/international

ACCESSING ADVICE HAS NEVER BEEN EASIER. THROUGHOUT YOUR STUDENT JOURNEY, YOU WILL HAVE ACCESS TO OUR FULL RANGE OF SUPPORT SERVICES, INCLUDING CAREERS ADVICE, MENTORING, ADVICE ON FINANCE AND ACADEMIC MATTERS, FIRST-CLASS PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT EVENTS AND MORE.

SUPPORTING YOUR WELLBEING LOOK AFTER YOUR FINANCES

Your health and happiness are important We know that financial health can impact SUPPORT to us and there are a wide range of support on your physical and mental wellbeing. To services available in areas including help you balance your budget we can offer disability and dyslexia, counselling, mental advice and support on the money you have, health and wellbeing, healthcare and help you seek paid work, and give you tips chaplaincy. We offer ongoing support, on making your money go further. workshops, and events such as our Mental Health Day which included tea and talk For anyone struggling with their finances sessions, music therapy, and therapy dogs! we offer a series of hardship funds to make things a little easier while you concentrate on your studies. We run CONFLICT RESOLUTION various activities during National Student AND COMPLAINTS Money Week aimed at checking your financial health and sharing useful Most people make friends for life when study hacks to make the most of your at university, but sometimes there can be resources including time and money. disagreements. We can help you resolve concerns before they escalate. If you think that we’ve fallen short in some way, you CHAPLAINCY can let us know and we’ll work with you to try to resolve it. Your time at university Faith plays a large part in the life of is important to us and we want to help many of our students. Our chaplains are you get the most out of your studies. friendly and welcoming, and are happy to talk to students of any faith or none during times of personal challenge or DISABILITY as an alternative source of support.

Whether you have already disclosed your disability to us, or believe that you might need help with a substantial long-term GOT A QUESTION? ASK US! condition that is having an adverse impact on your ability to do normal daily activities, You can ask questions in our Enablement team will be able to work person at help desks around with you to find the support you need. We the faculty buildings, through recommend talking to us as soon as you can our online enquiry service so that you can get the greatest benefit out of any support we can make available to you. or using the iBCU app.

www.bcu.ac.uk/student-services

32 33 Birmingham City University International Guide www.bcu.ac.uk/international

As a student at Birmingham City ERASMUS + BCU INTERNATIONAL University, you may have the SUMMER SCHOOL opportunity to study abroad at one You can also apply to study or work of our partner universities as part abroad with Erasmus+ where you Our International Summer School of an international exchange may benefit from a grant that can offers you the perfect opportunity programme linked to your degree. contribute to some of the costs to spend three weeks sampling UK

during your stay overseas. There university life, as well as giving you are also a number of fantastic the chance to enhance your academic GO ABROAD international summer programmes skills and visit some of the UK’s which can be taken outside of historic towns and cities. your degree! www.bcu.ac.uk/summer-school www.bcu.ac.uk/go-abroad

NICOLE WALSH CONOR DENNEHY CLAUDIA FERRARETTO KUSH LAD JACK HICKS HASSAN UL-HAQ Mexico Spain China Taiwan South Australia

I’d never travelled outside My Erasmus year in Barcelona I could never have imagined Who knew such a tiny island South Korea was perhaps the My experience in Melbourne of Europe before so when was truly amazing! I met many being able to take part in such could overflow with so much most interesting and significant is one that I will never forget I had the opportunity to go to people from around the world an unforgettable experience, love, kindness and memories experience of my life. Travelling and it has also allowed me to Mexico, I jumped at the chance. with different cultures and in an amazing, inspirational, for a lifetime. Yuntech enabled to the other side of the world has experience another country’s I went by myself and learned traditions, while also immersing and vibrant city. Thanks to us to learn basic Mandarin opened my eyes and changed creative industry. Not only this how to meet new people myself in the Spanish culture. the summer school at one of in just 10 days, guided and my perspective on life forever. but it has allowed me to meet and come out of my comfort The architecture, the food and BCU’s partner universities, taught by the most passionate some incredible individuals who zone. I’ve also learned that the lifestyle are only a few of I had the opportunity, not only teachers. The study partners have inspired me and allowed Mexicans are the friendliest the amazing aspects of your to grow as a person, but also welcomed us, they immersed us me to think outside my own people I have ever met! study abroad life that you to enhance my experiences into their culture, their families, creative bubble. will experience. and background to apply to my and the beauty of Taiwan in studies and on a future career! each of their cities or districts.

34 35 Birmingham City University International Guide www.bcu.ac.uk/international EARN WHILE YOU LEARN

Our students are given the opportunity to fill many part-time temporary positions within the University. This allows you to work while you study with us, fitting the job around your course. By taking part in the scheme, you will gain valuable experiences and employability skills, including taking part in a realistic application process, enhancing your prospects in the job market.

GET THE CAREER SUPPORT YOU NEED

We offer a wide range of online and face- to-face services to help you develop your employability skills, plan your career and access the latest job opportunities. This includes one-to-one support with job applications and interview preparation, and mentors from a range of sectors. ON Our students can access careers support throughout their time as a student and for COURSE up to three years after graduating. WORKING WITH INDUSTRY COURSES BUILT FOR YOUR FUTURE

Many of our courses offer you the chance Our courses were designed with input from current to work on live projects with businesses students and industry professionals, ensuring they or get involved with community projects meet your needs and those of potential employers. related to your course. Our business Employability skills, enterprise and practice-based innovation centre, STEAMhouse, features projects are built into the curriculum, giving you TO A a range of co-working, artist production, experience of the career you may wish to pursue. incubation and networking facilities for A range of learning, assessment and feedback small and medium-sized businesses in methods are used and you’ll have the chance the . to study a range of optional modules, so you can CAREER tailor your learning to your own interests. GAIN A COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE ACHIEVE YOUR FULL POTENTIAL

Our Graduate+ programme allows you To support you in achieving your full to build up experience through a range potential, the Centre for Academic of extracurricular, employment-related Success is available to help with your activities. You will work with our Graduate+ study, literacy and numeracy skills. team to undertake a skills audit and devise You can attend one of our workshops a personal programme of activities and or book a one-to-one tutorial to discuss collate evidence for what you’ve done, aspects of your work. using an online e-portfolio.

36 37 Birmingham City University International Guide www.bcu.ac.uk/international

RICHARD ODDY “The global leisure sector is Senior Lecturer in Management

growing all the time, and we Richard introduced the new Event, Venue and Experience Management want our students to be at the course in our Business School, the first course of its kind in the UK forefront of the industry in to be accredited by the Chartered Management Institute. the future. That is why we’re MEET THE giving them the skills they need to succeed.” STAFF WHO INSPIRE

AT BIRMINGHAM CITY UNIVERSITY, YOU WILL LEARN FROM THOSE WHO HAVE BEEN THERE AND DONE IT.

Many of our 1,800-strong team of academic staff are practising professionals and experts in their sector, including 10 National Teaching Fellows.

You will receive first-hand and up-to-date knowledge directly from those in the know, be it health practitioners, real estate specialists or professional musicians.

To find out more, visit www.bcu.ac.uk/our-staff.

38 39 “Our approach is to embed “My goal is to use my human-centric thinking industry insight to teach into our teaching and students different ways research, and develop of solving problems solutions that provide both surrounding digital a healthy environment forensic investigations. and healthy communities.” This involves building on the technological PROFESSOR LYNSEY MELVILLE Director of the Centre for Low Carbon Research knowledge they don’t An expert in low carbon technology who is currently realise they already leading research into the generation of energy from organic material, such as algae. possess.” “My teaching has enabled our RICHARD HALE Lecturer of Computer Forensics students to research the UN and An expert in Digital Forensics, Richard first participate in the meetings of the started working in the field in 2008. He moved to academia with extensive industry experience Human Rights Council. This is world- after working with two of the largest private digital forensics companies in the UK. leading teaching that enables BCU students to help change the world.” PROFESSOR JON YORKE Professor in Human Rights

“Mooting is a great way to An expert in international law and an adviser on the death penalty to the United Nations, the practice and develop your European Union, and the Council of Europe. legal skills, so we wrote a book to help students “My role is to make you think realise their potential. and question, to make you The experiences you’ll gain question what you think you will benefit you in and out know, and then to discover new of the classroom.” ways of thinking, questioning DR SARAH COOPER and understanding.” Researcher in Law ROBERT GIBB Dr Cooper co-authored the book Preparing to Moot, Course Director of Postgraduate Studies after she herself was a successful part of our mooting team during her time studying in our School of Law. within the School of Visual Communication.

A professionally experienced academic practitioner in a number of different areas, including Photography, Curation, and Fine Art.

40 41 Birmingham City University International Guide www.bcu.ac.uk/international OUR GRAPHIC ARTIST JOURNALIST YIFAN LING LAVANYA LAKSHMINARAYANAN MA Visual Communication MA Journalism - China - - India -

Yifan has been creating manga comics professionally Since graduating in 2018 Lavanya has gone on since she graduated in 2006. Now she has to become a subeditor for The Hindu, a daily GRADUATES published more than 20 books internationally and newspaper popular in India. She also reports her own online manga story ‘Guarding’ is now being on culture, entertainment and societal topics. developed into a television show and film. WHETHER IT IS SETTING UP SUCCESSFUL COMPANIES OR CREATING PUBLISHED WORK, OUR GRADUATES ARE SHAPING THE WORLD WITH THE SKILLS THEY HAVE HONED RIGHT HERE. TO SEE MORE OF OUR FORMER STUDENTS’ ACHIEVEMENTS, VISIT WWW.BCU.AC.UK/STORIES.

BLOGGER TECHNOLOGIST MARKETER LILY PEBBLES IBRAHIM MAGAJI NICK DEARMUN BA (Hons) Marketing, Advertising and PR MSc Enterprise Systems Management BA (Hons) Business and Advertising - UK - - Nigeria - - UK -

When Lily began her beauty and lifestyle blog as part of Since graduating, Ibrahim has continued to stay After graduating, Nick worked as an intern in a digital marketing module, she had no idea how many in the UK with the help of the University’s Tier 1 various advertising agencies before getting a job doors would open up for her. Now she runs her YouTube Graduate Entrepreneurship Visa endorsement.* as a marketing assistant for a record label. As a channel and other social media platforms full-time, He is now the CEO of his own company, Digital Green marketing manager for Columbia Records/Sony Music, has become a Sunday Times bestselling author with her Intercontinental, aiming to harmonise ICT technology he worked with Rag’n’Bone Man on his number 1 book The F Word, co-hosts an iTunes number 1 podcast with commercial agriculture. album, and with Calvin Harris across multiple releases ‘At Home With’ and collaborates with brands such as including several number 1 singles. His latest role Waitrose and The White Company. is as an Account Director at digital agency AKQA Los Angeles. *Please note you can no longer apply for a new Tier 1 (Graduate Entrepreneur) visa. If you want to set up a business in the UK you can apply for a Start-up visa instead. 42 43 Birmingham City University International Guide www.bcu.ac.uk/international MEET OUR mybcu Digbeth, home to some of Birmingham’s best street art. VLOGGERS Our students share their experiences bcusu_extreme_sports_team camellia.nk And sometimes we go Squad goals and advice on all aspects of applying and back to the beginning to see everything in a new way. preparing for university.

bcu_global Snowday at BCU.

joekapia SNAPPED We came, we saw, we killed the crowd.

AT BCU www.bcu.ac.uk/student-life Student life Want a taste of what @bcupolo in Birmingham kierandurrantphotography Smiles all around! Club captain Maria Look where we ended up after the Open student life in the city is at Summer Nationals 2018. Day, Birmingham’s Rotunda tower University life isn’t all about studying towering above the city. really like? Take a look at and with plenty to see and do in the UK’s our Instagram profile to see second largest city, you’ll never run out what’s going on around our of things to keep you busy. campuses and the city.

instagram/mybcu mybcu Where’s your favourite study spot on campus?

bcurowing Ian Winstanley – This year’s BCU www.bcu.ac.uk/why-choose-BCU rowing president. carrier_cosplay Steampunk time stopper! Good shoot on the green screen getting some awesome shots! maryamwm Why choose BCU? My week just got better… I graduated with a First Class degree in BA photography Our student Jamie shares why he decided to study with us and why you’d love to come to BCU too!

vickybeni Canon Street doing Christmas right. willrobins_ www.bcu.ac.uk/why-university Autumnal vibes at BCU today Should I go to university? kierandurrantphotography Birmingham’s St Martin’s Church If you’re sitting on the fence trying to figure harryharryharryharry glistening under the Bank Holiday if you want to go to uni or not, Joey’s tale Swung by to catch @edimusicmay at sunshine. may help you to make up your mind.

the Royal Birmingham Conservatoire shumixx 44 Jazz Club this evening. These people make my heart full 45 Birmingham City University International Guide www.bcu.ac.uk/international

STREET FOOD AT DIGBETH DINING CLUB

Head down to Digbeth on a Friday or Saturday for an ever-changing street food selection at Digbeth Dining Club.

SHOPPING AT

Birmingham’s arcades offer the chance to shelter from the elements while enjoying some interesting, independent shops. STREET ART IN DIGBETH

Digbeth is well known as Birmingham’s cultural hub, with art studios, creative businesses CITY LIFE and street art aplenty. WE ASKED OUR STUDENTS TO SHARE SOME OF THEIR FAVOURITE PLACES IN BIRMINGHAM HERE’S WHERE THEY TOOK US GERMAN LANE 7, THE MAILBOX CHRISTMAS MARKET

This is bowling like you’ve Each Christmas, never seen it before, Birmingham hosts its complete with walnut very own German Market, lanes, retro arcade games the largest outside and a UV-lit karaoke bar. Germany and Austria!

46 47 Birmingham City University International Guide THERE’S PLENTY MORE TO SEE AND DO IN BIRMINGHAM BULLRING SHOPPING CENTRE - FROM MUSIC AND CULTURE TO TOP-CLASS SPORT, WE HAVE ALL YOUR INTERESTS COVERED. Home to a variety of home, beauty and GHETTO GOLF clothing shops, you’ll never feel like you’re This indoor crazy golf missing out on the venue incorporates MUSIC latest fashion trends. graffiti, street food and There’s a host of great live cocktails for a truly music destinations to be unique night out! found across the city – from sticky-floored pubs and intimate jazz bars to the famous O2 Academy and Jools Holland’s Jam House.

CHINATOWN With its vibrant decor SPORTS and authentic cuisine, you’ll definitely want Whether you’re interested to explore our very in sport as a participant or a own Chinatown. spectator, Birmingham has plenty to offer. The city is set to host the Commonwealth Games in 2022, underlining its reputation as a destination for major sporting events. There are three big-name football clubs nearby and international cricket takes place at Edgbaston. PINBALL AT TILT PANCAKES AT CHERRY REDS Birmingham has plenty of quirky bars Set yourself up for including Tilt, where the day with a tasty you can enjoy a game breakfast from one CULTURE of pinball with your of Birmingham’s craft beer. popular cafés. With a world-class HOT CHOCOLATE AT BOND symphony orchestra, royal ballet company and theatres, There are plenty of places to warm up with Birmingham has some of a hot drink such as Bond, a café complete the finest contemporary with canalside seating. arts venues in the country, while one of the city’s most exciting facilities is the state-of-the-art, £188 million Library of Birmingham.

VINTAGE SHOPPING AT COW RELAXING

Fancy a bit of shopping? TAKE A WALK ALONG If you want to get out As well as big-name THE CANAL and about, the city has stores in the Bullring, BURGERS AT ORIGINAL PATTY MEN over 8,000 acres of we have plenty of Our huge network of canals park and open space, quirky independent Having started out at Digbeth Dining Club, the stretches across the city making it one of the stores like vintage OPM guys now have their own permanent outlet and is perfect for strolling, UK’s greenest cities. clothes outlet Cow. with some of the best burgers in town. jogging or cycling.

48 49 Birmingham City University International Guide www.bcu.ac.uk/international “Before coming to BCU I took a gap year and I worked as an English tutor in Florence for high school kids. I knew I ”I decided to take a gap year before I committed to a wanted to do something creative in my life, along the lines university and came to the UK to work as an au pair. of video editing and photography, but unfortunately, there I fell in love with the country, the city, the language weren’t many qualified practical university courses in the media field in Italy. and the people, and I couldn’t handle the thought of going back home. I decided I wanted to go abroad to study and I came to the UK to visit multiple schools, mostly in London. I’d missed the open days for BCU but had managed to organise an One day on a bus journey through town, the appointment to be taken round by one of the media tutors. on Margaret Street caught BCU had everything located in one place for me, and they my eye. I thought studying there looked like fun so treated me really well. The vibe was exactly what I was I immediately sent a message on the Facebook page hoping for from a community. I knew then that Birmingham to get more information about the courses. I’d set was right place for me to try and see what my heart on BCU so kept pushing to come here.” I could do with my creative skills.” VICTORIA BENI JOSI HENGSTWERTH BA (Hons) Media BA (Hons) Fine Art and Communication - Germany - - Italy -

“I’m originally from a small village in India, and I didn’t ever really think that I would study at a university in the UK.

I found out about BCU through relatives and decided to apply. When I arrived on campus for my first day, I was astonished that I had finally made it, but knew that the journey ahead was still going to be a difficult one.

The University is like a second home to me. Seeing the number of different students from all backgrounds really made me feel at home instantly.

BCU has opened me up to all cultures, and helped transform me from being a rural villager to an aspirational global change-maker. It has been a big shift, and I never would have thought that I would be in the position I am in today. The University has been a place for me to open up, express myself and realise my potential. JASPREET SINGH I was born in Punjab, but I was made in Birmingham!” MA International Human Resource Management - India -

“I wanted to study in the UK and I had a rare course in mind around cosmetics. The Cosmetics Branding and Promotion programme at BCU really appealed to me and so I made an I AM BCU application.

Being at BCU, I’ve been able to make new friends and the International Welcome Week helped me to ease into university life. Studying within a diverse school gave ”Since starting at BCU I’ve realised there are so me the chance to collaborate with other students, doing photoshoots with them and helping me become more many students spread all over the city, coming from confident. different backgrounds and with different life goals. I am proud to be part of something bigger and a Being based in the heart of Birmingham is convenient as you can travel anywhere by plane, train and bus. Also, we university that supports me in every area are located near the shopping malls and there are plenty of of my education and life. facilities for students!

Being a part of BCU is like being part of a family because It’s such a gift to be a part of a uni as amazing KAMONOOT KITTITUMMATORN we all help and support each other.” as BCU.” MA Cosmetics Branding and Promotion - Thailand - 50 51 Birmingham City University International Guide ARTS, DESIGN AND MEDIA

OUR FACULTY OF ARTS, DESIGN AND MEDIA INCLUDES ROYAL BIRMINGHAM CONSERVATOIRE FOR MUSIC AND ACTING COURSES, A LEADING PROVIDER OF MEDIA TRAINING, AND EUROPE’S BIGGEST JEWELLERY SCHOOL.

The Faculty incorporates the former Our subject areas include: • Light and airy art studios Birmingham Institute of Art and Design, • Acting and Theatre • Gallery and installation space an internationally-renowned centre for creative education with • Architecture and Design • Fine art library a history dating back to 1843. • Art • Exhibition space and specialist library • English • Digi.lab - a digital lab for Our links with industry have included • Fashion and Textiles prototyping and 3D printing Rolex, Swatch, Saatchi and Saatchi, • Jewellery, silversmithing and Goldsmiths, the BBC, The Royal Shakespeare • Jewellery and Silversmithing computer-aided design equipment Company, the City of Birmingham Symphony • Media and Multimedia Technology • 10 specialist acting studios complete with Orchestra, The Brits, Glenn Howells • Music Architects, Sony Computer Entertainment temperature regulation and sprung floors . Europe, SEGA and Rockstar North. • Visual Communication • Five public performance venues – including the 500-seat Bradshaw Hall Facilities include: and the Eastside Jazz Club, situated in • Print, textiles, wood, ceramics our new £57 million Royal Birmingham and glass workshops Conservatoire building • Photography studios and darkrooms • An experimental black box performance space called the Lab • Digital print and pattern-making facilities • Seven industry-standard recording • Four TV studios studios and post-production facilities. • Green screen MILO studio • Radio studio and editing suites

52 53 Birmingham City University International Guide www.bcu.ac.uk/international

ARTS, DESIGN AND MEDIA SCHOOLS

Birmingham School of Birmingham School of Media School of English Architecture and Design Strong links with a range of potential Our Institute of Creative and Critical Writing Over 100 years of training Royal employers who offer placements and gives students access to industry expertise Institute of British Architects (RIBA) expertise - from major radio and TV and masterclasses from writers, publishers accredited architects. broadcasters to PR agencies and and agents. games developers. School of Visual Communication School of Jewellery Our students have won prestigious national The largest school of jewellery in Europe. and international competitions, including Providing training in video game design Students work with high-profile companies the Royal Television Awards, Macmillan and development through courses backed such as Rolex, Georg Jensen (Denmark) Children’s Book Awards and Direct by the UK video game industry. and Weston Beamor (Birmingham). Marketing Awards. Undergraduate degrees here can be completed via a two-year fast track route. Birmingham School of Art School of Fashion and Textiles Royal Birmingham Conservatoire Birmingham School of Art’s heritage Selected graduating BA (Hons) Fashion stretches back over 130 years. Design students showcase their designs Multidisciplinary institution training the at Graduate Fashion Week, London, in June musicians, actors, stage managers and each year. applied theatre practitioners of the future. New £57 million state-of-the-art music building opened in 2017. 54 55 Birmingham City University International Guide www.bcu.ac.uk/international

ARTS, DESIGN AND BA (Hons) Graphic Communication BA (Hons) Video Game Digital Art MA/MSc Future Media MEDIA COURSES BA (Hons) Horology BA (Hons) Visual Communication MA Global Media Management (Graphic Communication – China) Undergraduate BA (Hons) Illustration MMus/PgDip/PgCert Instrumental Performance

BA (Hons) Interior Architecture and Design MA Interior Architecture and Design BA (Hons) Acting Postgraduate BA (Hons) International Jewellery Business MMus/PgDip/PgCert Jazz BA (Hons) Applied Theatre (Community and Education) BMus (Hons) Jazz MA/MFA Acting MA Jewellery and Related Products

BA (Hons) Architecture BA (Hons) Jewellery and Objects Distance Learning: MA Applied Linguistics GradDip Jewellery and Related Products

BA (Hons) Art and Design HND Jewellery and Silversmithing MArch Architecture MA Landscape Architecture

BA (Hons) Costume Design and Practice BA (Hons) Jewellery and Silversmithing PgDip Architectural Practice MA Landscape Architecture with (Level 6 Top-up) Conversion Year BA (Hons) Design for Future Living MA Art and Design: Interdisciplinary BA (Hons) Journalism Practices MA Luxury Brand Management BA (Hons) Design for Performance: Theatre, Film and Live Events BA (Hons) Landscape Architecture MA Arts and Education Practices MA Luxury Jewellery Management

BA (Hons) Design Management BA (Hons) Media and Communication MA Arts and Project Management MA Media and Cultural Studies (Level 6 Top-up) BA (Hons) Media Production MMus/PgDip/PgCert Composition MA Media Production BA (Hons) Digital Marketing BMus (Hons) Music MMus/PgDip Conducting (Choral or MA Multiplatform and Mobile Journalism BA (Hons) English Orchestral or Brass Band) BA (Hons) Music Industries MA Musicology BA (Hons) English and Creative Writing MA Contemporary Arts China BA (Hons) Music Journalism MMus/PgDip/PgCert Music Technology BA (Hons) English and Drama MA Cosmetics Branding and Promotion BSc (Hons) Music Technology MMus/PgDip Orchestral Performance (Strings) BA (Hons) English and Journalism MA Creative Writing BA (Hons) Photography MA Product and Furniture Design BA (Hons) English Language and Literature MA Data Journalism BA (Hons) Product and Furniture Design AdvPgDip Professional Performance BA (Hons) English Literature MA Design and Visualisation BA (Hons) Public Relations and Media MA/MFA Professional Voice Practice BA (Hons) Fashion and Beauty Journalism Distance Learning: MA Design Management BA (Hons) Sports Journalism MA Public Relations BA (Hons) Fashion Branding Distance Learning: MA English Linguistics and Communication BA (Hons) Stage Management MA Textile and Surface Design MA Event, Festival and Exhibition BA (Hons) Fashion Business and Promotion BA (Hons) Textile Design Management MA/MSc Video Game Development

BA (Hons) Fashion Design BA (Hons) Textile Design: Embroidery MMus/PgDip/PgCert Experimental MSc Video Game Enterprise, Performance Production and Design BA (Hons) Filmmaking BA (Hons) Textile Design: Fibre Art MA Fashion Design MA Visual Communication BA (Hons) Film and Screenwriting BA (Hons) Textile Design: Knit and Weave th MA Fashion Management MMus/PgDip/PgCert Vocal Performance 7 BA (Hons) Film Business and Promotion BA (Hons) Textile Design: Print and Surface Design MA Fashion Promotion Ranked 7th in the UK BA (Hons) Film Studies for drama and dance BA (Hons) Textile Design: Retail, Business MA Fashion Styling (Guardian League Table 2020) BA (Hons) Fine Art and Marketing MA Feature Film Development BA (Hons) Garment Technology BA (Hons) Video Game Design and Production MA Film Distribution and Marketing BSc (Hons) Gemmology and Jewellery Studies BSc (Hons) Video Game Development MA Fine Art

56 57 Birmingham City University International Guide BUSINESS, LAW AND SOCIAL SCIENCES THE FACULTY OF BUSINESS, LAW AND SOCIAL SCIENCES IS A GLOBALLY ORIENTED FACULTY, DRAWING ON THEORIES AND PRACTICE FROM AROUND THE WORLD TO INFORM OUR LEARNING ENVIRONMENT.

Birmingham City Business School is a Psychology and Sociology to develop insights Our subject areas include: leading professionally oriented, international into society. We also apply our research • Accounting, Economics and Finance business school focused on connecting you in real world settings on an international with every aspect of the world of business scale, working with communities, prisons, • Business, Management and Marketing and innovation. While we have a unique hospitals, schools and the police to • Criminology and Policing relationship with the extraordinary city we’re understand, and influence, social change. • Law rooted in, renowned for its industry and • Psychology commerce, our courses are designed to meet Accreditations include: • Sociology and Black Studies. the needs of businesses across the globe. • Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA) Birmingham City School of Law has been Our facilities include: at the forefront of innovative law teaching • Chartered Institute of Management Accountants (CIMA) • Library with access to 62 million for more than 40 years, specialising in social print and online resources justice and access to justice, with leading • Chartered Institute of Personnel and academics who are experts in human rights Development (CIPD) • Dedicated IT and student services support and the death penalty, as well as civil and • Chartered Management Institute (CMI) • Simulated courtrooms social issues.Our globally oriented, innovative • Chartered Institute of Marketing (CIM) • Psychology laboratories law degrees are tailor-made for law • Internal marketing agency professionals who want to make an impact • Chartered Institute of Internal Auditors (IIA) on the world. • The British Psychological Society (BPS) • City Trading Room. • Solicitors Regulation Authority and Bar At Birmingham City School of Social Sciences Standards Board. our mission is to make sense of the world. Our students and academics work together across the disciplines of Criminology,

58 59 Birmingham City University International Guide

BUSINESS COURSES LAW COURSES SOCIAL SCIENCES COURSES

Undergraduate Undergraduate Undergraduate

ACCA BA (Hons) International Finance (Top Up) LLB (Hons) Law BA (Hons) Black Studies

BSc (Hons) Accountancy BA (Hons) International Marketing (Top Up) LLB (Hons) Law with American Legal Studies BA (Hons) Black Studies in Criminal Justice

BSc (Hons) Accounting and Finance BA (Hons) Marketing LLB (Hons) Law with Business BA (Hons) Criminology

MAcc Accounting and Finance BA (Hons) Marketing (Advertising and PR) LLB (Hons) Law with Criminology BA (Hons) Criminology and Security Studies

BA (Hons) Business BA (Hons) Marketing (Consumer Psychology) BA (Hons) Criminology, Policing and Investigation BA (Hons) Business (Marketing) BA (Hons) Marketing (Digital) Postgraduate BSc (Hons) Counselling Psychology BA (Hons) Business (Professional Practice) BA (Hons) Marketing (Professional Practice) LLM International Business Law BSc (Hons) Professional Policing BSc (Hons) Business Accounting BA (Hons) Marketing (Retail) LLM International Human Rights BSc (Hons) Psychology BA (Hons) Business Administration (Top Up) LLM International Law BSc (Hons) Psychology with Business BA (Hons) Business Economics Postgraduate LLM Islamic Business Law BSc (Hons) Psychology with Criminology BSc (Hons) Business Finance MSc Accounting and Finance LLM Legal Practice BSc (Hons) Psychology with Marketing MFin Business Finance MSc Accounting and Finance LPC Legal Practice Course (Master’s Stage) BSc (Hons) Psychology with Sociology BA (Hons) Business Management LLM Professional Law MSc Accounting and Financial Management BA (Hons) Sociology BA (Hons) Business Management PgDip in Law (Consultancy) MSc Finance and Investment BA (Hons) Sociology and Criminology

BA (Hons) Business Management Distance Learning: MSc Insurance and (Enterprise) Risk Management Postgraduate BA (Hons) Business Management Distance Learning: MSc Internal Audit (Professional Practice) Management and Consultancy MA Black Studies

BA (Hons) Business Management MSc International HRM MA Criminology (Supply Chain Management) International MBA MSc Forensic Psychology BA (Hons) Economics MSc Management and Entrepreneurship MSc Health Psychology BA (Hons) E-sports Management MSc Management and Finance Distance Learning: MSc Psychology BA (Hons) Event, Venue and Experience Management MSc Management and International MA Security Studies Business BSc (Hons) Finance and Investment MSc Management and Marketing MFin Finance and Investment Distance Learning: MSc Organisation BA (Hons) Financial Economics Risk Management

BA (Hons) Global Hospitality Management

BA (Hons) Global Sport Management

BA (Hons) Human Resource Management

BA (Hons) International Business (Top Up)

60 61 Birmingham City University International Guide COMPUTING, ENGINEERING AND THE BUILT ENVIRONMENT THE FACULTY OF COMPUTING, ENGINEERING AND THE BUILT ENVIRONMENT COMPRISES TWO SCHOOLS WITH A SHARED VISION TO CREATE A POWERFUL CENTRE OF TECHNOLOGICAL EXCELLENCE AND INNOVATION, AND TO EQUIP YOU WITH THE SKILLS YOU NEED TO SUCCEED IN THE WORKPLACE AND CONTRIBUTE TO SOCIETY.

We have excellent resources including Accreditations include: Our subject areas include: state-of-the-art laboratories and engineering • The Chartered Institute of Building (CIOB) • Built Environment workshops, world-class film and television studios, and the latest computing and digital • Royal Institution of Chartered • Computing technologies, all located in a spectacular Surveyors (RICS) • Digital Technology environment provided by the Millennium • The Institution of Engineering and • Engineering. Point building. Technology (IET) • The Institute of Mechanical Our facilities include: Our courses are designed to develop highly Engineering (IMechE). • Cisco networking labs employable graduates and we have worked closely with our strong employer network • Industry-standard computer forensics lab to ensure our courses meet their demands • Specialist games lab and expectations. We work with some of the • Hydraulics lab world’s foremost employers, including the BBC, Microsoft, Cisco, Jaguar Land Rover • Computer Aided Design lab and Wilmott Dixon. • Flexible project space with makers’ area.

62 63 Birmingham City University International Guide www.bcu.ac.uk/international

COMPUTING, ENGINEERING AND THE BUILT ENVIRONMENT COURSES

Undergraduate Postgraduate

BSc (Hons) Architectural Technology MSc Advanced Computer Science

BEng/MEng (Hons) Automotive Engineering MSc Automotive Engineering

BSc (Hons) Building Surveying MSc Big Data Analytics

BSc (Hons) Business Information Technology MSc Building Surveying with Facilities Management BEng/MEng (Hons) Civil Engineering MSc Business Intelligence BSc (Hons)/MSci Computer and Data Science MSc Construction Project Management BSc (Hons)/MSci Computer Forensics MSc Cyber Security BSc (Hons)/MSci Computer Games Technology MSc Data Networks and Security BSc (Hons)/MSci Computer Networks MSc Enterprise Systems Management BSc (Hons)/MSci Computer Networks and Security Distance Learning: MSc International Logistics and Supply Chain Management BSc (Hons)/MSci Computer Science Distance Learning: MSc International BSc (Hons) Computing (One Year Top Up) Project Management

BSc (Hons)/MSci Computing and MSc Logistics and Supply Chain Management Information Technology MSc Mechanical Engineering BSc (Hons) Construction Management MA Planning Built Environments BSc (Hons)/MSci Cyber Security MSc Project Management BSc (Hons) Digital Media Computing MSc Quantity Surveying BSc (Hons) Digital Media Technology MSc Real Estate Management BEng/MEng (Hons) Electronic Engineering MSc User Experience Design BSc (Hons) Film Production Technology

BSc (Hons) Visual Effects

BEng/MEng (Hons) Manufacturing Engineering

BEng/MEng (Hons) Mechanical Engineering

BSc (Hons) Music Technology

BSc (Hons)/MPlan Property, Development and Planning

BSc (Hons) Quantity Surveying

BSc (Hons) Real Estate

BSc (Hons) Sound Engineering and Production

64 65 Birmingham City University International Guide HEALTH, EDUCATION AND LIFE SCIENCES THE FACULTY OF HEALTH, EDUCATION AND LIFE SCIENCES HAS A NATIONAL AND GROWING INTERNATIONAL REPUTATION FOR PIONEERING APPROACHES TO LEARNING AND TEACHING, THROUGH THE CREATION OF CUTTING-EDGE­ SIMULATED EXPERIENCES, AND HAS CONSISTENTLY ACHIEVED “EXCELLENT” RATINGS IN NATIONAL QUALITY AUDITS.

We have a proven record for graduate The School of Nursing and Midwifery Our facilities include: employment, with 99.4% of students in provides a dynamic and forward-thinking • Mock operating theatre and hospital wards graduate level employment or further study learning environment, supported by more six months after graduating (DLHE 2016/17). than 100 academic staff who are qualified • Specialist drama, art and music rooms nurses and experts in their fields. Four • Physiology and biomechanics laboratory We are committed to teaching quality and lecturers in the School have achieved the • A radiography imaging suite have been awarded the Skills for Health title of ‘Queen’s Nurse’ from the Queen’s • Sports therapy clinic room Quality Mark, in recognition of the high Nursing Institute in recognition of their standard of learning and training delivered dedication to a high standard of patient care. • Specialist speech and language therapy on our health courses. clinic room We have a good history of engagement • Digitally enabled bioscience laboratory. The School of Health Sciences was with overseas ministries, academic established in 2014 to accommodate our institutions and professional bodies to growing Biomedical Science and Sports transform local healthcare and education courses portfolio. The School has a strong practices. Activities include collaborative focus on practical experience and application research and delivery, student progression of theory to ensure that you are ready for and mobility of staff and students. employment on graduation.

66 67 Birmingham City University International Guide www.bcu.ac.uk/international

HEALTH, EDUCATION AND LIFE SCIENCES COURSES

Undergraduate Postgraduate

BEng (Hons)/MEng Integrated Master’s Distance Learning: MSc/PgDip/PgCert Biomedical Engineering Advancing Diabetes Care

BSc (Hons) Biomedical Sciences MSc Dietetics

BA (Hons) Early Childhood Studies MA Education (International Education)

BA (Hons) Early Childhood Studies MSc Medical Engineering* (1 Year Top Up) MSc Physiotherapy BA (Hons) Education Studies MSc/PgDip/PgCert Professional Practice BSc (Hons) Food and Nutrition MSc/PgDip/PgCert Public Health BSc (Hons) Health Studies (Public Health) MSc Social Work BSc (Hons) Nursing* MSc/PgDip/PgCert Transforming and BSc (Hons) Physical Education and Leading in Health Care School Sport

BA (Hons) Primary Education

BSc (Hons) Professional Practice (Healthcare for International Students)

BSc (Hons) Secondary Science (Biology) with QTS

BSc (Hons) Secondary Computing with QTS

BA (Hons) Secondary Physical Education with QTS

BSc (Hons) Social Work

BSc (Hons) Sport and Exercise Nutrition

BSc (Hons) Sport and Exercise Science

BA (Hons) Working with Children, Young People and Families

*subject to approval

68 69 Birmingham City University International Guide www.bcu.ac.uk/international THE APPLICATION PROCESS

CHECK OUT OUR VISA GUIDANCE VIDEO

www.bcu.ac.uk/visa-vid

SELECT CHECK APPLY RECEIVE YOUR ACCEPT AND RECEIVE APPLY FOR YOUR COURSE ELIGIBILITY OFFER LETTER PAY YOUR YOUR CAS YOUR VISA* 1 2 3 4 5 DEPOSIT* 6 LETTER* 7 If you don’t meet entry Online, on paper, Your offer letter will provide Accept and pay your We will email you Once you have received your For more information on the requirements you may be able to via a representative details about: course offered, deposit to confirm your a Confirmation of CAS letter, you can then apply application process visit: study a foundation year with us or through UCAS. tuition fee, scholarship awarded, place at Birmingham Acceptance of Studies for your visa. You can find guidance or at Birmingham City University course start dates and other City University. (CAS) number in on applying for your visa: www.bcu.ac.uk/international/ International College (BCUIC). relevant information. a CAS statement. www.bcu.ac.uk/visa application-process

*Only applicable to non-EU students

70 71 Birmingham City University International Guide www.bcu.ac.uk/international

THERE ARE FOUR EASY WAYS THAT YOU HOW CAN SEND AN APPLICATION TO US: TO APPLY

ONLINE PAPER APPLICATION

Apply early and avoid the August rush. Request an application form from Select your course of choice [email protected] on the website and click and return by email with your "apply now". scanned documents.

IN-COUNTRY UCAS REPRESENTATIVES Undergraduate students can apply through UCAS. The University’s Use the guidance and assistance of UCAS code is B25 BCITY. Birmingham City University reps in your country. You can find them listed at: For support on how to apply, www.bcu.ac.uk/your-country you can contact us on +44 121 331 5389 or email [email protected].

72 73 Birmingham City University International Guide www.bcu.ac.uk/international

6.0 You’ll need a minimum 6.0 IELTS score to study here. To achieve 6.0, you can TAKE A LOOK AT OUR take our pre-sessional English courses. ENGLISH LANGUAGE REQUIREMENTS VIDEO

www.bcu.ac.uk/english-req-vid

ENTRY REQUIREMENTS ENGLISH REQUIREMENTS NEED TO IMPROVE YOUR ENGLISH? To be successful while studying at The courses are designed to equip Once you have found the course you would Level Requirement like to apply for, it’s important that you have Birmingham City University, you’ll international students with the need to have a good level of English. academic skills they need to succeed You need an Available achieved, or are aiming to achieve, the entry You should be educated to a standard comparable to British Foundation The majority of our courses require during foundation, undergraduate and extra score of course requirements for that course. Our website is the A Level standard but may have achieved lower marks best source for this information but as a general a minimum IELTS score of 6.0 overall postgraduate courses and to raise their 0.5 6-week pre- rule, please see the table on the right: (with no band less than 5.5). English language level to meet the entry sessional English An average of five GCSE passes (grades A* to E/2 to 9), BCUIC Foundation requirements of their main programmes. with at least three grade C/4 results 1.0 10-week pre- For your country entry requirements, please If IELTS isn’t your main English language qualification provider, we also accept Please note that applicants will need an sessional English visit: www.bcu.ac.uk/international/countries Minimum of a UK Higher National Diploma (HND) or UK a range of other qualifications as IELTS from a UKVI approved test centre 1.5 16-week pre- BCUIC Pre-Master’s Diploma in Higher Education (DipHE), and a minimum overall evidence of your English language in order to do a pre-sessional course. sessional English or grade point average (GPA) of 2.3 on the 4.0 scale abilities. Please visit our website to find one-year Foundation out if we accept your local qualification. We have three programmes to You should be educated to a standard comparable to Certificate in English Undergraduate offer students: British A Level standard for Academic Purposes (FCEAP) PRE-SESSIONAL • 16 weeks You should normally hold a qualification which is comparable Postgraduate ENGLISH COURSES • 10 weeks If you have 4.0, you can take our one-year to a British Bachelor’s (Honours) degree • 6 weeks. Foundation Certificate in English for Pre-sessional English courses are Academic Purposes which has a 100% for international and EU students www.bcu.ac.uk/international/english pass rate! www.bcu.ac.uk/fceap PhD You should have a Master’s degree in an appropriate discipline whose first language is not English, and who have a conditional offer to You should normally hold a First or Second Class Honours study for a degree course. MPhil undergraduate degree or equivalent

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BIRMINGHAM CITY UNIVERSITY INTERNATIONAL COLLEGE (BCUIC) FOUNDATION PROGRAMMES

For students who are unable to meet Birmingham City University’s foundation entry requirements, or for those who would benefit from additional student support and more one-to-one interaction with tutors, Birmingham City University International College (BCUIC) also offers a range of specifically tailored foundation programmes aiming to prepare students for university-level study.

Teaching at BCUIC is delivered in a dedicated area of the University’s campus, helping students to enjoy a supported transition into mainstream university life. BCUIC also offers additional entry points with its First Year and Pre-Master’s programmes, plus the added benefit of flexibility with three intake options per year (September, January or May).

BIRMINGHAM CITY UNIVERSITY FOUNDATION PROGRAMMES

We offer foundation programmes in the following FOUNDATION WE OFFER A RANGE OF FOUNDATION subject areas: PROGRAMMES HERE AT BIRMINGHAM • Accountancy and Finance • Architecture and Design CITY UNIVERSITY. • Art, Design and Visual Communication • Built Environment If you have been educated to a standard comparable to • Business British A Level standard but your qualifications are slightly • Education PROGRAMMES below those required for direct entry onto a Bachelor’s • Computing and Technology degree, a foundation programme may offer an alternative • Engineering route to achieve your goals. • Health Sciences • Law YOUR DIRECT PATH TO UNIVERSITY Foundation programmes are for school-leavers who have • Media and Multimedia Technology studied a non-British curriculum but wish to pursue a • Sport and Physical Activity. degree at a UK university. The foundation course acts as a bridge between your current qualifications and our entry requirements and is designed to plug academic gaps, improve For the latest information please visit: your English and familiarise you with UK life and culture www.bcu.ac.uk/international/foundation in preparation for university.

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£30 - £75 £122.50 - £145 EU students pay the same as home students

£5 - £50 TUITION FEES LIVING COSTS

You can expect to pay the following each week: YOUR ANNUAL TUITION FEES Programme level Non-EU students IF YOU'RE FROM OUTSIDE COVER EVERYDAY TUITION, Foundation £12,800 THE EU, YOU'LL NEED TO Description Cost Foundation (BCUIC) £8,750 EXAMINATION COSTS AND HAVE SUFFICIENT FUNDS Private furnished room, shared kitchen, Accommodation £122.50 - £145 MEMBERSHIP OF THE STUDENTS’ Pre-Master's (BCUIC) £8,750 TO STUDY IN THE UK. YOU gas, water, electricity, wi-fi Undergraduate £12,800 UNION. HALF OF YOUR FEES WILL NEED TO ALLOW AT Food and drink Weekly shopping, dining out, social nights £30 - £75 ARE PAID AT ENROLMENT, AND Postgraduate From £12,800* LEAST £1,015 PER MONTH, THE REST CAN BE PAID IN OR £9,135 FOR THE FIRST Additional costs Stationery, printing, clothing, cinema etc. £5 - £50 Some courses have a different tuition fee structure. Please check our website *** INSTALMENTS, PROVIDED YOU for the most up-to-date fees. NINE MONTHS OF YOUR Weekly total £157.50 - £270

HAVE A UK BANK ACCOUNT. *Course fees vary per postgraduate course. STUDIES.**

Find out more information at www.bcu.ac.uk/international-fees. **As per UKVI guidance, please note ***These costs will vary depending on your personal circumstances. that this figure might change. Find out more information at www.bcu.ac.uk/international-fees.

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We work with employment agencies within Birmingham to list the opportunities available in the city. This allows you to work while you £1.2 MILLION study with us, fitting the job around available in scholarships your course commitments.

SCHOLARSHIPS EARN WHILE YOU LEARN

BCU Academic Excellence Scholarship By taking part in the scheme, you will Example roles include: WE UNDERSTAND THAT Depending on your prior education Non-EU students only ‘OPPORTUNITY: STUDENT gain valuable experiences and employability YOUR ACADEMIC CAREER background, you may be entitled JOBS ON CAMPUS’ ENSURES skills, enhancing your prospects in the job • Administration assistants to a scholarship ranging from Prompt Payment Bursary* market. It will also allow you to become • Laboratory assistants CAN BE A COSTLY ONE; £1,000 up to £2,000. If you pay your tuition fees THAT OUR STUDENTS ARE more involved in University life by delivering, • Marketing assistants in full before travelling to, or during leading and supporting many aspects of • Student ambassadors THEREFORE WE WOULD External scholarship providers your enrolment in the UK, you will GIVEN THE CHANCE TO the learning experience, from administration • Student academic mentors LIKE TO HELP YOU TO FIND There are a number of providers be entitled to a £300 prompt payment FILL MANY PART-TIME to research and mentoring roles. • Copywriting who offer financial support for your discount. This discount applies • Magazine editor FUNDING FOR YOUR STUDIES journey to studying in the UK. to the amount you owe after any TEMPORARY POSITIONS Tier 4 students who are sponsored to study • Technical assistant scholarships or bursaries have been a full-time course by a Tier 4 sponsor • Web developer AT BIRMINGHAM CITY www.bcu.ac.uk/international/ deducted from your tuition fee. WITHIN THE UNIVERSITY. are allowed to work up to 20 hours a week • Video and post-production assistant UNIVERSITY AND HAVE OVER scholarships in term time if you are studying for • Database assistant a qualification at degree level. • Disability assistant £1.2 MILLION AVAILABLE *Please note there are exceptions to the • Receptionist scholarships we offer and who is eligible For more information please visit: • Assistant PA. IN SCHOLARSHIPS. for the Prompt Payment Bursary. www.bcu.ac.uk/work www.bcu.ac.uk/student-employment

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YOUR ARRIVAL WATCH JASPREET’S MOVING COUNTRIES IS A VIDEO, AS HE SHARES HUGE DECISION AND WE WANT HIS TIPS FOR SETTLING TO MAKE IT AS EASY AND INTO UK LIFE. SMOOTH AS POSSIBLE. OUR INTERNATIONAL TEAM WILL HELP YOU EACH STEP OF THE WAY AND IT DOESN’T STOP WHEN YOU ARRIVE, AS WE HAVE AN EXTENSIVE SUPPORT SYSTEM IN PLACE TO HELP YOU WITH ANY ISSUES YOU MAY HAVE. www.bcu.ac.uk/uk-life-vid

MEET AND GREET JOBS AND CAREERS We’ll meet you at Birmingham Airport We can help you get a National Insurance number, and make sure you’re dropped off at your look for a part-time job and improve your CV. Our student accommodation. Visit www.bcu.ac.uk/ student employment agency, OpportUNIty, allows meet-and-greet for more information. you to apply for part-time jobs at the University, subject to any visa restrictions. Our Research, Innovation and Enterprise department will assist VISAS AND IMMIGRATION you if you aim to apply for a Start-up visa. The International Student Visa Advisers provide advice on UK immigration law, including the impact of academic decisions STUDENTS’ UNION, SPORTS on your visa, replacing lost visas and extending AND SOCIETIES student visas. Please email [email protected] When you become a Birmingham City University for more information. student you automatically become a member of our Students’ Union, and have access to a wide range of fantastic services and facilities. WELCOMING YOU The International Student Association will help During September we hold a week of welcome you get acquainted with student and city life. activities especially for new international From something as simple as having a meal at students. You will enrol on your course, get one of the city’s many restaurants, to a day trip information about the University, meet staff, open to a different location, we’re here to create a a bank account, register with the police and with welcoming social environment for our students. a doctor. It’s also an opportunity to attend social events, familiarise yourself with Birmingham, and make the city your home away from home.

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